Cancer of the hard palate and maxillary alveolar ridge: Technique and applications

Cancers of the hard palate and maxillary alveolus are uncommon and are most often squamous cell carcinoma. Etiologic factors such as tobacco and ethanol use are similar to those of other oral cavity cancers. Each of the oral cavity subsites has treatments and techniques uniquely designed for eradication of disease. In addition, each subsite has different functional and reconstructive options for the surgeon to individualize to each patient. While radiation therapy may be effective, cancers of the hard palate and alveolar ridge are safely and effectively treated with surgical resection. With an understanding of regional anatomy, surgery in this region can be performed reliably with very few complications and excellent functional recovery. Technological advances such as imaging and powered instrumentation have aided the technique of maxillary and hard palate cancer surgery.